A MAGNETIC PLANT.

North Otago Times, Volume XXXIV, Issue 6978, 1 March 1890, Page 3

A MAGNETIC PLANT.

There has been discovered in the forests of India a strange plant, which possesses to a very high degree astonishing magnetic power. Th« hand which broaks a leaf from it receives immediately a shook equal to that which ii produced by th« conductor of an induction coil. At a distance of six metres « magnetic needle in affected by it, and it will be quite deranged if brought near. The energy of this singular influence varies with tho hours of the day. All-powtrful about two o'clock in the afternoon, it is absolutely annulled during the night. At times of storm its intensity augments to striking proportions. During rain the plant seems to succumb, und bends its head during a thunder shower. Ii remains there without fores or virtue even if one should shelter it with an umbrella. No shock is felt at the time in breaking the leaves, and the needle is unaftected by it. One never by any chance sees a bird or insect alight on the dec trie plant ; an instinct seems to warn them that they would find their sudden death. It is also important co remark that wher* it grows none of the magnetic metals are found, neither iron, nor cobalt, nor nickel— an undeniable proof that the electric force belongs exclusively to the plant. Light and hea^ phosphorescence, magnetism, electricity — now many mysteries and botanical problems does this wondrous Indian plant conceal within its leaf and flower ?